Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities	$ 4,365	$ 3,373
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Flight equipment, including advance payments	(1,179)	(1,276)
Ground property and equipment, including technology	(410)	(340)
Purchase of Virgin Atlantic shares	0	(360)
Purchase of short-term investments	(1,642)	(719)
Redemption of short-term investments	748	869
Other Investing Activities, Net	58	18
Net cash used in investing activities	(2,425)	(1,808)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Payments on long-term debt and capital lease obligations	(2,485)	(968)
Repurchase of common stock	(600)	(93)
Cash dividends	(176)	(51)
Proceeds from long-term obligations	980	68
Fuel card obligation	1	90
Other Financing Activities, net	6	(9)
Net cash used in financing activities	(2,274)	(963)
Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents	(334)	602
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	2,844	2,416
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	2,510	3,018
Other Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract]
Flight equipment under capital leases	28	0
SkyMiles used pursuant to advance purchase under American Express Agreements	0	250
Build-to-suit leased facilities	$ 6	$ 103